Did you know about Canada’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserves?
This school term has been tough for me, emotionally and academically. While I am extremely grateful to be pursuing my dream degree and a great school, the last year of my undergrad has proven to be particularly difficult. And time and time again I find myself seeking comfort in nature during the difficult moments of my life. Especially in the Fall, with the leaves changing and the temperature dropping, it can be so helpful to reconnect with the world around you. This, in addition to some other research I’ve been doing, made me want to spotlight a really great international initiative implemented across Canada – the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
Under the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme, Biosphere Reserves (referred to as Biosphere Regions in Canada) are areas of ecological importance as well as social, cultural, and economic innovation. They are “learning places for sustainable development” based on three pillars: (1) conservation biodiversity and cultural diversity; (2) sustainable economic development; (3) logistic support underpinning development through research, monitoring, and education initiatives. Biosphere regions also have three broad areas, a Core Area of protected ecosystems and/or landscapes; a Buffer Zone surrounding/adjoining the Core Area where sustainable research, monitoring, or educational activities occur; and a Transition Zone where communities implement sustainable economic or other human-based operations.
Essentially, Biosphere Regions are “living laboratories” working to reconcile environmental, social, cultural, and economic issues. They develop regional solutions (e.g., sustainable agriculture) to global issues! Not only this, but they are beautiful places to visit, hike, kayak, wildlife-watch, and learn about community-based conservation! In a world full of overwhelming environmental losses, Biosphere Reserves prove there is hope in reconciling environmental and economic priorities. In fact, 2025 saw the addition of 26 new Biosphere Reserves globally, the most annual additions in in 20 years!
There are 19 incredible Biosphere Regions in Canada, but I’m going to highlight two beautiful Regions right here in Ontario! There are four BRs in Ontario, but these two are closest to me in Waterloo, ON. To learn more about the other two, see the links at the end of this post.
Long Point
Designated since 1996, Long Point Biosphere Region covers the Long Point Peninsula at the tip of southern Ontario on Lake Erie. Long Point is home to numerous ecosystems, which host a diverse array of wildlife. The conservation of migratory birds, multiple species at risk, sandy shoreline systems, and its huge wetland complex are also central here. Across numerous conservation and community areas, Long Point’s tourism activities are revolved around programs and research projects which educate and entertain visitors, as well as protect the area! There are nature-based activities (camping, hiking, fishing, biking, kayaking) as well as many opportunities to explore the community culture (farmers markets, museums, arts centers, harbors)! If you are interested in conservation, you can learn a lot about Long Point’s wildlife road watch, migratory bird monitoring, beach restoration, and turtle hatchery initiatives as well!
Niagara Escarpment
Designated since 1990, the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere encompasses a long stretch (over 725 km) of cliffs and forests across south-central Ontario. It is comprised of the boreal needleleaf forest and temperate broadleaf forest biomes. It is now a non-governmental, not-for-profit organization to promote more community-based, grassroots practices. Within its huge area, there are numerous activities to do all year long. Including: skiing, camping, water sports, and hiking. Canada’s oldest trail, the Bruce Trail, runs within the Biosphere along the escarpment! You can explore numerous ecosystems and historic sites. You can enter the Biosphere Region from many points, with it running from Niagara Falls to the tip of the Bruce Peninsula!
To find out more …
About Ontario’s two other BRs:
About Canada’s Biosphere Regions here, or global networks of them here.
Abby Shin 
Leave a comment